Berkel X13E-PLUS Table Mounted Manual Gravity Feed Food Slicer with 13-inch Knife

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and care of your Berkel X13E-PLUS Table Mounted Manual Gravity Feed Food Slicer. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation, operation, or maintenance to ensure proper usage and to prevent injury or damage.

The Berkel X13E-PLUS is a robust, manual gravity feed food slicer designed for commercial use, featuring a 13-inch knife for precise slicing of various food products, particularly meat. Its design emphasizes durability and ease of cleaning.

Image 1.1: The Berkel X13E-PLUS Table Mounted Manual Gravity Feed Food Slicer. This image shows the overall design of the slicer, including the main body, product table, and blade guard.

Important Safety Information

Always observe basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury. This product is intended for commercial use by trained personnel only. Keep hands clear of the blade at all times. Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.

Proposition 65 Warning: This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

2. Setup and Installation

Before operating the slicer, ensure it is properly set up and installed on a stable, level surface.

2.1 Unpacking

1. Carefully remove the slicer from its packaging.
2. Inspect the slicer for any shipping damage. Report any damage to the carrier immediately.
3. Remove all packing materials, including any protective films or ties.

2.2 Placement

• Place the slicer on a sturdy, level countertop or table capable of supporting its weight (approximately 89 lbs).
• Ensure adequate clearance around the slicer for operation, cleaning, and ventilation.
• The slicer requires a 220V/50/1, 3.5 amp AC power supply. Ensure the electrical outlet is properly grounded and matches the slicer's requirements.

2.3 Initial Cleaning

Before first use, thoroughly clean all food contact surfaces. Refer to the 'Maintenance and Cleaning' section for detailed instructions.

3. Operating Instructions

The Berkel X13E-PLUS is a manual gravity feed slicer designed for ease of use and consistent slicing.

3.1 Controls and Components

• Power Switch: Sealed start/stop switches control the motor. An LED power on indicator light confirms operation.
• Thickness Adjustment: A variable pitch barrel cam allows for precise adjustment of slice thickness, up to 1-5/16 inches.
• Product Table: Large, removable, NSF approved product table for holding food items.
• Meat Pusher: A 45° angle rear mounted meat pusher with an ergonomic handle helps secure and guide the product towards the blade.
• Product Fence: Included to assist in guiding products for consistent slicing.
• Permanent Ring Guard: Provides safety around the blade area.

3.2 Slicing Procedure

1. Ensure the slicer is clean and properly assembled.
2. Adjust the slice thickness using the variable pitch barrel cam to your desired setting.
3. Place the food product onto the large removable product table. Position it against the product fence and secure it with the 45° angle rear mounted meat pusher.
4. Turn on the slicer using the start switch. The LED power on indicator light will illuminate.
5. Using the ergonomic handle, manually push the product table and the food item towards the rotating blade. The gravity feed design assists in feeding the product.
6. Collect sliced product from the receiving tray (not explicitly mentioned but implied for slicers).
7. When finished, turn off the slicer using the stop switch and allow the blade to come to a complete stop before handling.

4. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and hygienic operation of your Berkel slicer. Always disconnect the power supply before cleaning or performing any maintenance.

4.1 Daily Cleaning

• Product Care Instructions: Hand Wash Only. Do not immerse electrical components in water.
• Remove the large removable product table and product fence for separate cleaning. Wash with warm, soapy water, rinse, and sanitize.
• Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to wipe down all exterior surfaces, including the 1-piece polymer base and stainless steel components.
• Carefully clean around the blade area, utilizing the permanent ring guard for safety. Always use cut-resistant gloves.
• The slicer features a kick stand for easy cleaning underneath the unit. Lift the slicer onto its kick stand to access the underside.
• Rinse all cleaned surfaces with a clean, damp cloth and sanitize as required by local health codes. Dry thoroughly before reassembly.

4.2 Blade Sharpening

The slicer includes a removable sharpener with borazon stones for maintaining the blade's edge. Refer to the specific instructions provided with the sharpener for safe and effective blade sharpening. Sharpen the blade regularly to ensure optimal slicing performance.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Berkel X13E-PLUS slicer. For problems not listed here, or if solutions do not resolve the issue, contact Berkel customer support or a qualified service technician.

• Slicer does not turn on:
  • Check if the power cord is securely plugged into a functional 220V outlet.
  • Verify that the circuit breaker has not tripped.
  • Ensure the start switch is fully engaged and the LED power on indicator light is illuminated.
• Poor slicing quality (uneven slices, tearing):
  • The blade may be dull. Refer to section 4.2 for blade sharpening instructions.
  • Ensure the slice thickness adjustment is set correctly and securely.
  • Verify that the product is properly secured against the product fence and meat pusher.
  • Clean any food debris from the blade and blade guard that might be obstructing the slicing path.
• Unusual noise during operation:
  • Turn off the slicer immediately.
  • Inspect for any loose parts or foreign objects.
  • Contact a qualified service technician if the noise persists after inspection.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

The Berkel X13E-PLUS Food Slicer comes with a 1-year parts, labor, and travel coverage warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

The warranty does not cover damage resulting from misuse, abuse, accident, alteration, improper installation, or lack of proper maintenance. Consumable parts, such as blades and sharpening stones, are typically not covered under warranty for wear and tear.

7.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, warranty claims, or to order replacement parts, please contact Berkel customer support. Have your model number (X13E-PLUS) and serial number ready when contacting support.

Berkel Contact Information:
Please refer to the official Berkel website or your purchase documentation for the most current contact details.